Yesterday, Vanessa and I attended the Martin Luther King Jr. Day parade in downtown Charlotte. Each time that a band passed, especially one containing drums, I got a little bit of ‘bop’ in my step. Vanessa asked if hearing the sounds of the drums brought back a little nostalgia. I answered, yes. It brought back lots of memories of playing in the high school band.

I remembered us marching in parades, half-times at football games. playing drum riffs in the stands trying to keep warm and, well, because it was fun. Although the people in the band usually got tagged with the moniker, band geeks, some of the coolest guys in the school were in the drum section. For the most part, most of us probably had expressions on our faces like this guy, tongue stuck out, concentrating on the music, having a great time.

Those were some good memories and the sound of the drum, off in the distance, or nearby, is always a welcomed sound to my ears.

I certainly understand that, Earl. Not all good times in high school for me, either, but this particular activity was a lot of fun as was bowling with my friends. We had a bowling team, too. Talk about geeky. They would announce Bowler of the week over the P.A. Sometimes, I heard my name. Mind you, this was not a sport that was going to get all of the honeys, or even one for that matter, but it was nice being recognized every once in a while.

Thanks, Joan. It was fun and nostalgic at the same time. It always elevates my mood when I hear a good marching band, and this one, from West Charlotte High School certainly fit the bill. They had a nice strong percussion section.

I had to march when I was in the Air Force and it really wasn’t my cup of tea, but I was good at it. I’m now retired from marching and the world is a better place for it.ken bello recently posted..a simple twist of fate

Man, that makes us both drummers! Except I was a drummer in a punk band and I really sucked at it (which in a punk band in the late 70s was a good thing). Nice timing on capturing that shot.Cedric Canard recently posted..Unplugged

I have a tough time keeping a beat. But, this young man is deep into it. Love the photo. I was a loaner in high school, participating in very little. Not the best of days for me and I feel for those who are oppressed in that environment.Monte Stevens recently posted..Waiting